Foiled Plot: Oklahoma Terror Suspect’s Arrest for Election Day Attack

The FBI successfully thwarted a major Election Day terror plot in Oklahoma City, leading to the arrest of an ISIS sympathizer.

At a Glance

Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan national, was arrested for allegedly planning an ISIS-supported terrorist attack.
Authorities claim Tawhedi was plotting to use semi-automatic firearms to cause mass casualties.
The arrest took place after an undercover FBI operation targeting an arms deal.
Tawhedi faces terrorism-related charges carrying a potential 35-year prison sentence.

Arrest of Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi

On Election Day, the FBI intercepted a potentially devastating attack in Oklahoma City orchestrated by Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi. This Afghan national had immigrated to the United States in 2021 on a special visa. He lived in the city until federal agents arrested him after an undercover operation revealed his intention to execute a mass-casualty attack. Tawhedi, a reported ISIS sympathizer, was allegedly scheming with semi-automatic weapons to target populated areas.

Authorities identified Tawhedi’s extremist leanings through actions such as liquidating his possessions and securing one-way tickets for family members to Afghanistan. He allegedly aimed to strike following their departure from the U.S. His arrest occurred in a sting operation focused on his attempt to purchase firearms. Tawhedi’s charges include terrorism support and conspiracy to carry out a violent act.

ICYMI: An Afghan national living in Oklahoma City is behind bars, the FBI says he planned an ISIS-style terror attack for election day.

He allegedly scouted targets in D.C., and looked for states with relaxed gun laws to buy weapons.

FULL DETAILS: https://t.co/G2tWXHo2xv @kfor pic.twitter.com/uzh9giaONJ

— Spencer Humphrey (@SHumphreyTV) October 9, 2024

Undercover Operation and Surveillance

The FBI began its investigation following signs of Tawhedi’s commitment to ISIS ideals. Federal officials tracked his online activities, including viewing ISIS propaganda and attempting to gain surveillance capabilities in Washington, D.C. Reports also cite his contribution of $540 in cryptocurrency to a charity connected with ISIS. These actions culminated in a strategic FBI sting operation, capturing Tawhedi and his alleged associates during an arms exchange setup.

“This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. Details of Tawhedi’s intentions emerged via encrypted messages, firearm purchases, and plans to achieve martyrdom in an attack intended for large public gatherings.

Threats against the homeland are real as evidenced by the arrest of an Afghan citizen living in Oklahoma City for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the U.S. on behalf of ISIS. Fortunately, the FBI was able to disrupt his plot: https://t.co/bd2JGAstd0

— FBI Houston (@FBIHouston) October 9, 2024

Challenges and Responses

Tawhedi’s arrest underscores ongoing concerns about potential threats within U.S. borders. Officials have highlighted an increased terrorism threat, particularly with the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The thwarting of this plot comes as a relief amidst worries about the potential for elevated violence on Election Day. Attorney General Merrick Garland reinforced the FBI’s dedication to identifying terror threats. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security,” he emphasized.

“As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” stated Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. This successful intercept demonstrates critical information-sharing measures between agencies, offering a robust defense against terror threats.

The alleged plot and its successful interdiction highlight vigilance as a priority. Key public figures, including Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, praised the FBI’s efforts to avert disaster. Ongoing vigilance and collaboration will be essential in securing the nation against these threats.